First Steps to Change Custody?

Question of the Day:

Eight years after the divorce from my ex, my two daughter's ages 12 and 15 are asking if they could now, live with my wife (of four years)and I.  Something we have been wanting for a very long time. We want to be sure that we do everything in the proper order to make this happen, for them and for us. So not to disappoint them with some legal torpedo my ex may launch and have the whole thing blow up in our face. What are the first steps necessary to make this whole ordeal(one the ex will not be happy with)happen as smooth as possible? – John

Answer:

John: The easiest and smoothest way is to reach an agreement with your ex on a change in custody.  If that is impossible, then your next step is to ask the court to order it.  Be aware, though, that preference of the children is only one of the factors the court will consider.